Which new ultraportable laptop? Jan-2015

Every few years, one of my various computing devices becomes old and breaks down. This is what happens to old things, like me. Getting old sucks.

Anyway, in this case, it’s a lightweight ultrabook. I have narrowed it down to a few choices. I’ve made some little comparison tables way down below. It’s not comprehensive. There are tons of videos out there on the differences.

I am feeling a bit of Paradox of Choice right now. Too many options and it’s unclear which one we will appreciate the most. Here are some of my thoughts on the subject:

Speed. The newest i7 Intel chip is much faster than the old i7. However, more RAM is always a cost-effective way to increase performance. The Zenbooks 301 and 303 both have good performance on this front.

Low heat is critical. It’s a LAP-top. It goes on your lap and fries your legs if the chip is too hot. It’s unclear which is the winner here.

Sexy matters. I’d like to say it doesn’t, but it does. I want a laptop that makes you want to kiss it all over and rub it on someone’s face when they notice it. Someone told me that “sexy” was the wrong adjective for a laptop. Let’s go with Alluring. Better?

Cost. I don’t mind spending extra to get a great device. It lasts longer and gives much higher happiness ratings. This is a case to not be penny-wise and pound foolish.

Resolution. Actually, this may be a case where good = bad. Super high resolution devices make text extremely small. This means you get eye-strain. Windows 8.1 currently does a poor job of adjusting to the high resolution. Even Windows Apps have a max of 1080p. What is the point of ultra high resolution if you aren’t using it and it just hurts your eyes? I imagine one day, Windows 10 (?) might do a better job of adjusting, but I believe that 1080p might be just fine.

Screen size. Is 13.3 enough? I think so, but I am not positive.

Weight. Less is better. It’s incredible to me how thin and light these devices are. It’s like some sort of magic.